A BUSINESSMAN in the Vale of Clwyd has overcome setbacks including a devastating fire to rebuild his trade and come through adversity stronger than ever.

Ian Forsyth suffered his first misfortune in July last year when burglars cut through the perimeter fence at his SevenOaks Garden Centre on Lon Parcwr Industrial Estate and stole garden furniture, stoneware and pots worth more than £3,500.

Three days later, he arrived at the garden centre to find an electrical fire had gutted the shop area, destroying £40,000 worth of stock.

For many businesses it would have been a knockout blow but Mr Forsyth had no intention of “throwing in the trowel”.

With no interior space to operate from, a temporary unit became both office and shop for three months as the SevenOaks team made the most of the busy summer season.

Mr Forsyth turned the fire into an opportunity to revamp and improve the interior layout of the shop, and the business bounced back, expanding both in size and retail offering.

Now, 18 months on, he has taken the next step, with the garden centre undergoing a complete rebrand, including a web presence at www.seven oaksgardens.co.uk, and launching a full range of Christmas gifts and decorations.

“I knew we were doing something right because we’re bucking the trend,” said Mr Forsyth. “Most garden centres across the UK are making maximum gains of between 1-2%. SevenOaks is so far showing year-on-year gains of 33%. I decided to strike while the iron was hot.”